Strengthening clinical research capacity in low and middle income countries

The Academy of Medical Sciences and InterAcademy Partnership for Health convened a policy workshop on strengthening clinical research capacity in low and middle income countries in London on the 3-4 July 2017.

The Academy of Medical Sciences and InterAcademy Partnership for Health convened a policy workshop on strengthening clinical research capacity in low and middle income countries in London on the 3-4 July 2017.

This two-day workshop, chaired by Professor Malcolm Molyneaux OBE FMedSci and Professor Rajae El Aouad, facilitated discussions around clinical research capacity in low and middle income countries (LMICs) and how it can be improved.

A wide range of skilled individuals are essential for the development of clinical research and the translation of this knowledge into improving health. It is therefore vital to understand the capacity of trained and active clinical researchers within a country or geographic region. Such information can help develop policies and interventions to strengthen clinical capacities.

Medical and health research councils in LMICs have recognised a lack of expertise in health economics, epidemiology, anthropology and health policies coupled with a shortage of staff with statistical, analytical and managerial skills. These limited capacities pose a serious challenge for the effective translation of clinical research questions, the development and implementation of comprehensive research proposals and the ability to oversee complex clinical research projects.

Health systems in LMICs are also dependent on a strong clinical research capacity to improve and sustain effective disease surveillance, health and management information systems, quality assurance activities and vital registration systems.

This workshop brought together experts and evidence to examine the current capacity of clinical researchers in LMICs and to identify barriers and challenges to having an adequate supply of clinical researchers. Participants explored the careers and skills pipeline of future leaders and discussed potential solutions to identified gaps that could be implemented both nationally and regionally.

This workshop was funded by the Global Challenges Research Fund that aims to support cutting-edge research that addresses the challenges faced by developing countries. Visit our GCRF webpage to read more about the fund.

The organisation of this workshop was overseen by a steering committee based in both the UK and LMICs. The steering committee members were: